Meaningful Consultation at International School of Panama

I am grateful for another meaningful two-day consultation at International School of Panama a few weeks ago.

During my second consultation, I led fundamental intercultural competency capacity building with all employees. I grounded the conversation in key concepts of dignity, respect, belonging, and living the mission of the school.

In the spirit of providing multiple linguistic entry points, the first session was conducted in English and Spanish. Afterwards, I facilitated a subsequent session in English, for those who prefer to converse in English, and Spanish, for those who prefer to discuss these topics in Spanish.

During all three sessions, participants were courageous in their reflection and sharing with their colleagues. We concluded the first day by launching our belonging survey for all employees, in Spanish and English.

During the second day, I facilitated three employee focus groups in Spanish and three employee focus groups in English, to learn more about ways that ISP employees describe their sense of belonging and recommendations to deepen belonging for all. I ended the second day by reconvening the Belonging Task Force to design 2023-24 DEIB strategy.

To be sure, on both nights I ate incredible local Panamanian food with my new colleagues. I estimate I must may have eaten between 20-30 patacones (tostones) during my four days in Panama!

I can't wait to return in October to engage with students and parents/caregivers!